WHAT IS IPL/SHR?
You may have heard of IPL before this stands for Intense Pulsed Light, SHR standing for Super Hair Removal, the machine we have is the latest technology and a mixture of both. IPL/SHR is popular for men, women and teenagers.
Our machine can treat skin issues and be used for hair removal.
When it comes to hair removal, older machines can be painful and cause sensitivity to the skin, meaning that treatments are restricted to certain seasons.
With our new SHR system we can effectively remove hair whilst cooling the skin so there is less damage, you can get back to regular activities faster and be treated all year round.
DOES THE TREATMENT HURT?
Treatment with SHR is practically painless, compared to treatment with conventional IPL devices. The sweeping technique of moving the applicator repeatedly over the treatment area gives full coverage while the MAX cooling system cools the skin surface, preventing superficial burns and allowing for virtually pain-free, yet highly effective hair removal.
However, some of skin treatments do still feel hot on the skin as we are treating with different levels of light to target pigmentation and vascular issues.
I HAVE ACTIVE ACNE ON MY SKIN WILL THIS TREATMENT HELP ME?
The system can be used for the improvement of mild to moderate inflammatory acne. This range targets a type of bacteria that colonize inside the sebaceous gland and block it.
A photo-chemical reaction induced by the light, induces the photo excitation process and the destruction of the bacteria.
CAN YOU GET IPL/SHR TREATMENTS IN THE SUMMER?
Yes, please read the first question for more information (What is IPL/SHR).
MY CHEEKS ARE REALLY RED, IT LOOKS LIKE THE SMALL VEINS UNDER THE SKIN ARE BROKEN, CAN THIS TREATMENT HELP ME?
Yes, the light absorbed by hemoglobin is converted to heat thereby effectively cauterizing the walls of capillaries that look broken. This means there is no longer a blood supplying the damaged area.
MY SKIN HAS A LOT OF FRECKLES FROM BEING IN THE SUN, CAN YOU REMOVE THESE?
Freckles and patches of pigmentation can generally be removed or lightened. In some cases we cannot remove all of it, if it is hormonal unlike sun damage pigmentation.
Light absorbed by melanin is transformed into heat energy, this process causes the breakdown of pigment molecules.
Transient erythema (swelling) and darkening of pigment molecules can be expected after the treatment.
I FEEL LIKE MY SKIN IS AGING AND I AM CONSIDERING BOTOX, CAN THIS TREATMENT HELP ME WITH THE FINE LINES AND WRINKLES?
Collagen effectively absorbs the 510/560 nm-1200 nm spectrum of light, targeting the collagen bundles in the skin.
The retraction of collagen bundles makes this process effective in the management of fine, superficial wrinkles.
This treatment is very effective when on a skin plan and used in conjunction with micro needling.
View more about micro-needling
This treatment is not instant like Botox and more for a longer term effect rather then short term and instant. This and micro needling stimulate your own natural collagen production.
CAN I GO BACK TO WORK OR ABOUT MY NORMAL DAY AFTER MY TREATMENT?
After your treatment, the area is cleansed and you can return to your normal activities immediately.
Slight reddening and local swelling of the skin, similar to sunburn, may occur in some patients. These effects typically last no more than 24 hours.
The skin’s natural protection is somewhat weakened after this intense light treatment. Therefore a high level of UV protection (30-50) in the form of sunscreen lotion should be applied for about 1 week.
CAN I WAX OR PULL THE HAIR OUT IN BETWEEN MY HAIR REMOVAL PROCEDURES?
After 1-5 weeks hair will fall out. Shaving is possible any time but hair should not be plucked.
Keep the area clean. Wash gently with tepid water.
Avoid the use of any possible skin irritants on the face such as the stimulant creams, (Retin-A, Retinova, Glycolic Cream), Benzoyl Peroxide or astringents.
If the area appears red or shows any signs of tenderness, apply a soothing cream.
Full after care advice will be given at the time of your treatment and we are always available via email or phone if you have any questions.
HOW LONG SHOULD I WAIT IN BETWEEN MY TREATMENTS?
The hair growth cycle and the interval between treatments should correspond, requiring spacing of approximately 4 weeks. With regards to the skin treatments we will recommend a program for you at your consultation.
DO I NEED TO TAKE PRECAUTIONS BEFORE THE TREATMENT?
Yes, at least 1 week before the first treatment, intense sun exposure or solarium visits should be avoided.
Hairs should not be waxed or plucked less than 6 weeks before treatment. Shaving is permitted any time.
Areas to be treated should ideally be shaved one day before the scheduled appointment.
If you are currently on the medication Ro-Accutane or similar or have been in the past 6 months, please let us know before each treatment session. This medication can make your skin more susceptible to damage from the treatment.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
Generally with body hair removal you will need 8-10 treatments, although if you have hormonal issues you may need more as hormones are out of our control.
Facial hair removal is usually more hormonal and may require extra treatments.
With regards to skin treatments we will decide on a plan at your consultation. Depending on the skin problem we would usually recommend 1-4 treatments.